The use of Internet and IT by Dairy Farmers is on the Increase in Turkey

Almost every day, people come across new technologies. Most products that are claimed as “the newest technology,” become “old” very quickly.

A similar situation occurs in agriculture and the animal industry. Recently, the use of technology has expanded in every part of this industry. Mobile communication companies, banks, universities, private informatics companies give services for improving production therefore improving profitability and sustainability in agribusiness. Special internet and information technologies have been used in every area of agriculture from animal husbandry to plant production or from agricultural machines to irrigation in the last few years.

For example; dairy farmers can avoid cow losses due to temperature, humidity or power cuts by taking advantage of information technologies. An emergency warning system sends a text message to the farm staff and allows them to control airflow sytems. On the other hand this system can be used by corporations who are distributing and selling milk and dairy products to increase control and profitability. Again considering these applications, the heat cycle of cows can be detected by counting cows' steps using a chip which is planted into them. The success in determining the mating period is important for milk production and animal health.

By using sensors that are installed on milk collection points and cooling tanks and communication devices between machinery; the level of water, antibiotics, alcohol, milk temperature and acidity can be determined. The factors affecting milk quality can be observed instantly. Therefore vital data on milk quantity and quality and milk itself can be followed closely.

As a result, the use of the internet and information technologies by dairy farmers allows for significant savings for themselves and consumers. It is very important to the government in terms of using resources efficiently as well.